The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is more than just a shotgun; it's a statement. This elegant over-and-under (O/U) firearm blends classic Italian craftsmanship with modern engineering, resulting in a shooting experience that's both refined and reliable. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and overall value, helping you determine if the Silver Pigeon III is the right choice for your shooting needs. We'll cover everything from its aesthetics to its practical application in the field.
Unboxing the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III: First Impressions
Upon receiving the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III, the first thing that strikes you is its elegance. The finely sculpted wood, the deep blue of the steel, and the overall balance of the gun exude quality. This isn't just a tool; it's a work of art. The weight feels substantial in your hands – reassuringly solid, yet not overly heavy.
Key Features: A Closer Look
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Exceptional Woodwork: The Silver Pigeon III typically features high-grade walnut, beautifully checkered and finished. The wood is meticulously selected and crafted, contributing significantly to the gun's balance and aesthetic appeal. The level of detail in the checkering is impressive, offering a secure and comfortable grip.
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Steelium Plus Barrels: Beretta's Steelium Plus barrels are known for their strength and precision. These barrels are cold-hammer forged, resulting in exceptional accuracy and durability. This translates to consistent patterns and a longer lifespan for your firearm.
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Selective Ejectors: The selective ejectors allow for controlled ejection of spent shells. This feature is appreciated by many shooters, particularly in hunting situations where quiet operation is preferred.
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Adjustable Comb: While not standard on all models, some configurations offer an adjustable comb, allowing shooters to fine-tune the stock's fit for optimal cheek weld and reducing recoil. This personalized adjustment can significantly improve accuracy and comfort.
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High-Grade Action: The receiver features intricate engraving, adding to the overall elegance of the gun. The action itself is renowned for its smooth operation and reliability, a hallmark of Beretta craftsmanship.
Performance on the Range and in the Field
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III isn't just beautiful; it performs exceptionally well. The Steelium Plus barrels deliver consistent patterns, even with varying ammunition. The balanced weight distribution makes the gun swing effortlessly, enhancing your ability to acquire targets quickly.
Swinging and Shooting: A Smooth Experience
The balanced feel of the 687 Silver Pigeon III translates to an intuitive and comfortable swing. The gun points naturally, making target acquisition effortless, whether you're clay shooting or hunting. This ease of handling is a major contributor to the gun's popularity among both novice and experienced shooters.
Recoil Management: A Comfortable Experience
While recoil is a factor with any shotgun, the 687 Silver Pigeon III manages it remarkably well. The combination of balanced weight and the design of the stock reduces felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions more enjoyable. This makes it suitable for shooters of various sizes and strengths.
Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III vs. Competitors
The Silver Pigeon III competes with other high-end O/U shotguns, such as the Browning Citori and the Caesar Guerini Summit Sporting. While all are excellent choices, the Beretta often stands out due to its combination of elegance, performance, and relatively competitive price point. Many consider the Beretta a better value proposition, offering a luxurious feel without the significantly higher cost of some competitors.
| Feature | Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III | Browning Citori | Caesar Guerini Summit Sporting |
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| Price | Mid-range to High | Mid-range to High | High |
| Engraving | Intricate, elegant | Varies by model | Highly customizable |
| Barrel Material | Steelium Plus | Varies by model | High-quality steel |
| Ejectors | Selective | Selective or Non-selective | Selective |
| Overall feel | Balanced, elegant | Balanced, robust | Balanced, lightweight |
Conclusion: Is the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III Worth It?
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is a premium over-and-under shotgun that delivers on its promise of elegance and performance. While it comes with a higher price tag than some entry-level models, the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and shooting experience justify the cost for many shooters. If you're looking for a beautiful, reliable, and high-performing O/U shotgun, the Silver Pigeon III is certainly worth considering. Its blend of classic design and modern engineering makes it a versatile choice for both sporting clays and hunting. The smooth action, balanced handling, and consistent performance contribute to a highly enjoyable shooting experience.